Specimen Requirements

Special Note:  This order includes a hematology profile with automatic differential and reticulocyte count.  Results will be availabe in the interpretive report.  

Specimen Type: Whole Blood

Collection Container/Tube: Lavender (EDTA)

Pediatric Collection Container/Tube: Lavender Microtainer (EDTA)

Specimen Volume: optimal 2 mL, minimum 1 mL

Pediatric (microtainer) volume: 0.5 mL

Whole blood specimen should be inverted gently several times to mix blood immediately after collection.  Also, send 4 unstained, well-made peripheral blood smears.

Peripheral Blood Smear Instructions:

1. Use clean, high-quality glass slides
2. Using EDTA blood, drop a blood droplet that is about 4mm in diameter
3. Adjust spreading speed and angle (30-40 degrees) until 2 slides are adequate with smear approximately ¾ length of glass slide
4. The smear should have a smooth feathered edge.
5. Label thick end of smears with patient’s full name, date of birth, and date of collection.
6. Important - slides must be completely dry prior to putting them into a slide container. Send slides refrigerated or ambient.
7. If sending EDTA whole blood for RMC/RSMC to prepare blood smears, specimen must arrive within 2 hours of draw.